Rain and drizzle forced volunteers, staff and supporters for the new YMCA building into a huddle beneath a small tent at Monday’s groundbreaking ceremony. At the center of the huddle was a scale model of the new 38,000-square-foot facility.

“It took us a long time to get here, but this is truly a remarkable day,” said YMCA board president Chuck Hughes. “I look around and I see neighbors, board members, donors, future swim instructors, and it’s only fitting . . . a lot of people helped make this day happen . . .it’s a beautiful day out here. Despite the liquid sunshine.”

Mr. Hughes said the building will be a haven for people who need low-cost programs and services, now more than ever.

“It’s for everyone. It will serve the people, and will rely on people. All we are doing today is starting on the bricks and mortar; the rest of the building will be made up people and the programs they run,” he said.

Vineyard schools superintendent Dr. James H. Weiss said he looked forward to the day when the new YMCA will host a high school swim team. Oak Bluffs selectman Duncan Ross said a few words. And Vineyard legislative liaison Nell Coogan presented YMCA a letter from Cong. William Delahunt congratulating them on the new building. “The values learned in this wonderful new facility will lead to many a life well-lived for young people and families,” Mr. Delahunt wrote.

The ceremony concluded when about a dozen board members and volunteers gathered to plant the shovels in the ground.

“Only 38,000 square feet more to go,” joked one shoveler.

“No problem,” said another, capturing the optimism of the day. “We’ll get there.”